The traffic on the Chandigarh-Manali National Highway was blocked because of a heavy downpour but has now been partly reopened. A section between Mandi and Pandoh was disrupted on Friday night when a landslide struck at 5 Mile, 6 Mile and 9 Mile. The officials also stated that it took 10 hours to clear and restore the section of the road.
Alternative routes via Katuala and Gohar
The officials issued directives for light vehicles to take alternative routes via Kataula and Gohar as the highway was covered with debris and stones.
Travel Advisory issued for Chandigarh-Manali Highway
The Mandi administration has issued a travel advisory for commuters and has advised people to examine the road and weather conditions before making a travel plan. Two roads have been temporarily shut down-Mandi-Dharampur near Kumarhda and Mandi Janjehli road near Thunag. Meanwhile, one-way traffic is been currently operational between Aut and Pandoh road which is adjoining to Godh Nallah and Jogni Mata Temple. This lane has been affected because of the landslide because of which traffic is allowed to run on one side only.
A total of 115 roads have been shut down because of heavy downpours on Friday evening, as stated by the state emergency operation center. The road which has been decided to be closed include 46 in Mandi, 38 in Kullu, 15 in Shimla, six roads from Sirmaur and Kangra, three in Kinnaur and one each in Spiti and Lahaul.
As per the latest update, the road at 5 Mile and 6 Mile has been partially reopened as the debris has been removed. On the other hand, one-way traffic has been allowed from Mandi to Pandoh at 9 Mile. The road is expected to be fully operational by 10: 00 am.
(With PTI inputs)